Tributes roll in for National Freelancers Day 23 November 2011

Tributes roll in for National Freelancers Day 23 November 2011

New research today reveals a 12% increase in the number of people opting to become freelancers. As these new figures are released by Kingston University and PCG for National Freelancers Day, business leaders and politicians have rallied their support for the growing sector. The number of freelancers in the UK now totals 1.56 million or 1 in 20 in the UK workforce, a 12% increase on 2008.

The sector is celebrating National Freelancers Day 23 November 2011 and freelancers were given a ringing endorsement from across society including entrepreneurs such as Michelle Moone, the First Minister of Scotland and associations including the CBI, REC and FPB all pledged their support to the PCG run initiative.

THE BUSINESS LEADERS

Michelle Mone OBE,

Entrepreneur and founder of Ultimo

"Making a decision to work for yourself can be a big risk for those who are accustomed to a regular income, so I really admire the dedication and commitment of the 1.56million freelancers in the UK and am delighted to support National Freelancers Day. Striking a work life balance around family and other commitments can be a huge challenge and requires a great work ethic and drive which not only is inspiring to others but also benefits our economy at a time when unemployment is prevalent."

Sir Tom Farmer

Entrepreneur

"When I think of the freelance community I think of pioneers with skills, dreams and a vision. On National Freelancers Day I am delighted to pay tribute to this growing sector who, through their innovation and determination, are helping the UK economy through these troubled economic waters. As the UK’s leading organisation representing freelancers PCG are also to be applauded for raising the awareness of freelancers, contractors and consultants. To every single one of you, have a great day!"

THE BUSINESS ORGANISATIONS

John Cridland,

CBI Director General,

“ I hope that this year’s National Freelancers Day provides the inspiration for many new people to join the talented ranks of freelancers that we have here in the UK. A new career as a freelancer may create unexpected opportunities and provide welcome flexibility for those with caring responsibilities.”

Jane Bennet, Head of Campaigns, Forum for Private Business

Freelancers can be a valuable source of temporary man power for small businesses. Our recent Referendum Survey showed a significant number of our members struggling to cope with spiralling inflationary pressures, so if using a freelance for a specific, short term job can help SMEs keep overheads down, all the better.

“Using freelance staff is simple and means less red tape and form filling for employers. No income tax, nor National Insurance contributions, and they won’t be asking for holidays either.

Using freelance staff is also a great way of getting specialist work done. Many a micro business owner will be familiar with using a qualified accountant to keep their company finances in order, particularly for tax purposes. Tax returns can be complex and time consuming to the layman. Getting them in late can mean a fine, or botching them could lead to a visit from the tax man, so for those not used to number crunching, a freelance is the perfect way to avoid hassle. The beauty of freelance staff though is their flexibility. In to do a specific job, gone when it’s done. This can be a great way of sourcing competent staff for a more permanent position too.”

“Flexible working practices were one of the main reasons employment held up comparatively well during the recession, and can also bring significant benefits now that the economy is recovering. The relative ease of doing business in the UK, and the flexibility of our labour market, is one of our key competitive advantages. We need to do everything possible to hold on to this and to enhance it wherever possible.

“The benefits are not only economic. Evidence shows that people who have taken control of their careers through freelancing and other forms of self-employment have higher levels of job satisfaction, as well as general health and wellbeing.”

THE POLITICIANS

Alex Salmond

Scotland’s First Minister

"I am delighted that National Freelancers Day gives me the opportunity to pay tribute to the growing importance of the freelance sector. From the oil & gas sector, IT consultants to media, marketing and finance, the men and women who pioneer the sector are bringing their skills and flexibility to the workplace. They deserve a vote of thanks for their contribution to the economy, as we work to boost jobs, growth and opportunity."

Edwina Hart,

Welsh Government Business Minister

“Freelancers make an important contribution to the Welsh economy and often provide invaluable support to start-up businesses and small and medium sized businesses who may need specialist advice but don’t have the resources to employ someone on a full-time basis.

“In Wales there are a large number of freelancers and a particular demand for them in the growing creative industries sector. With popular television programmes such as Casualty and Dr Who now being made in Wales and film companies using locations in Wales for films like Harry Potter the demand for freelancers is set to continue. National Freelancers Day gives us all a chance to acknowledge the contribution freelancers make to the economy of Wales.”

Prime Minister, David Cameron

“I have a huge respect for all those who make the brave decision to branch out on their own and take control over the way they work.

This Government recognises the valuable contribution that freelancers make to the economy and, as more and more people choose to join your ranks, you have all our support.”

To get involved in the day visit www.nationalfreelancersday.com, for information about the organisers PCG, visit www.pcg.org.uk